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AP Capstone

AP Capstone at Winter Park High School

Think. Research. Lead.

AP Capstone is more than just two courses – it’s a launchpad for college, career, and life. Through AP Seminar and AP Research, students learn how to ask bold questions, find credible answers, and share their ideas with confidence.

It’s the kind of preparation colleges notice – and Wildcats are leading the way.

Explore the College Board AP Capstone Program

 

What is AP Capstone?

AP Capstone is a two-year program designed by the College Board to strengthen skills that matter most: critical thinking, academic research, collaboration, and communication.

At Winter Park, our AP Capstone students take:

  • AP Seminar (Year 1) – Investigate real-world issues from multiple perspectives. Learn to analyze, debate, and present ideas with clarity and confidence.
  • AP Research (Year 2) – Design and conduct a year-long independent research project on a topic of personal interest. Work closely with a mentor, write a scholarly paper, and defend your findings before an academic panel.

 

Diagram outlining the requirements for the AP Capstone Diploma and Certificate.

 

Why It Matters

AP Capstone gives students an edge that extends far beyond high school.

College Readiness: Build skills that prepare you for the rigor of university coursework.

AP Capstone Diploma: Students who complete the program and pass their AP exams earn a nationally recognized distinction.

Real-World Relevance: Research topics that connect to today’s biggest challenges and your future career path.

Competitive Edge: Colleges value the initiative, depth, and discipline of AP Capstone students.

 

AP Capstone Contacts

Mr. Andrew Disney
Advanced Studies Coordinator
andrew.disney@ocps.net

 

Important AP Capstone Resources

 

“AP Capstone helps students develop key skills that they will use over and over in college: conducting research and communicating their results.”

Stu Schmill, Dean of Admissions, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Ready to Research. Ready to Lead.

Winter Park Wildcats don’t just take classes – they take the lead. AP Capstone is your chance to do the same.

Getting started is simple:

  1. Talk with your school counselor about AP Capstone during course selection in the spring.
  2. Review prerequisites and requirements in our AP Course Guide – Coming Soon.
  3. Apply during spring registration.

 

Talk to Your Counselor Today – Who’s My School Counselor? – Coming Soon

 

Parent Corner: AP Capstone FAQ

  • Seminar builds foundational skills in analysis, teamwork, and presentation. Research is a capstone project where students design and defend an original study.

  • No. AP Capstone stands on its own, though many students choose other AP courses alongside it.

  • Students who score a 3 or higher in both AP Seminar and AP Research plus four additional AP Exams receive the AP Capstone Diploma.

  • Universities view AP Capstone as evidence of academic readiness and independent research skills—qualities that stand out in applications.